Which Came First, the Faith or the Evidence?

That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, “I have made you the father of many nations.” This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing. Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping— believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous. - Romans 4:17-22

Oh how easy it is to demand evidence before granting my faith to God! In fact, it's ingrained in my human nature. I am an untrusting creature, suspicious of everything that sounds "too good to be true". I am double-minded, driven and tossed by the wind. (James 1:7-8)

So the question is, does Faith come first, or do I need the evidence in order to have strong Faith?

Like the old adage, "which came first, the chicken or the egg?", this one actually has an easy answer! The answer to the old question is that the chicken came first, because God created it, not the egg. The faith answer is just as simple. The above scripture says "This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing." Abraham was made the father of many nations as a result of his faith and unwavering hope. He did not decide to have faith after receiving the fulfillment of God's promise.

God is faithful. Our unwavering hope in Him is the evidence. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1

I think it's time to turn my thinking around! Do I only hope in the Lord after seeing evidence of His work in my life? Do I have faith in my God once I think I can see His reasoning? God forbid!

I am called to have a faith that will be substance and evidence of my Father's goodness! I am expected to have my faith grow stronger as I wait on the fulfillment of the promises. Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping!

Let it be said of me, also Lord!

Heavenly Father, let me never doubt that You are at work in my life. Give me a faith like Abraham's, a hope that is unwavering. In Jesus' Name, Amen...

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